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Health News of Thursday, 21 May 2020

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Minister tells herbalists to be wary of COVID-19 patients

Minister of State for Health, Dr Olorunnimbe Mamora Minister of State for Health, Dr Olorunnimbe Mamora

Traditional medicine practitioners have been warned by the Minister of State for Health, Dr Olorunnimbe Mamora, to be cautious when attending to patients with symptoms of coronavirus.

During a meeting with Traditional Medicine and Herbal Cure Claimants on Thursday, Mamora assured the practitioners of the Federal Government commitment to source for local treatment solutions using the right protocol.

The minister's statement read:

“We have reached a stage where we are experiencing community transmission of the disease. This calls for the TMPs to be on the watch for patients that will patronise them with symptoms of COVID-19 and refer them appropriately.

“The ministry recognises the role of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine in health care delivery, especially at the primary health care level. Accordingly, the ministry has shown interest in the development, promotion, commercialisation and institutionalisation of TCAM Practices in Nigeria.”

He said, “I understand some of you have responded positively by making submissions to the TCAM Department. This essentially is why the ministry is determined to facilitate the process through its relevant agencies participating in the meeting of today. We must engage to chart a way forward.

“You may be aware of the donation of a herbal medicinal product known as COVID Organics to the Federal Government by Madagascar. The product is going to be subjected to the normal protocols of analysis and evaluation by NAFDAC before taking a decision on its use.

“I want to assure you of the ministry’s resolve to forward your submissions to NAFDAC and NIPRD for urgent necessary action. The outcome of their analysis and evaluation on your products will inform appropriate recommendation to the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19.”